At Ergo Bank, we know that small businesses aren’t just part of the economy, they are the economy. They’re the shops, farms, service providers, and side hustles that power our rural communities, one hard-earned dollar at a time.

If you own or are thinking about starting a small business, you already know it takes more than passion to succeed. That’s why Ergo Bank is here to be a partner you can count on, every day of the year.

Whether you’re planning, expanding, or navigating challenges, here are 7 ways we support entrepreneurs and local businesses just like yours.

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Why Small Businesses Matter in Rural Communities

Small businesses aren’t just economic engines, they’re neighbors, families, and familiar faces. Nationally, small businesses:

Locally, the impact is even more personal. Your favorite coffee shop, the mechanic down the road, or the farmstand you visit every summer? All small businesses. And when they succeed, our whole town benefits.

See How We Support Small Businesses

7 Ways Ergo Bank Helps Entrepreneurs Succeed

Here’s how we support small business owners with real solutions that fit your needs:

1. Business Bank Accounts That Work for You

Running a business is a lot easier when your bank accounts are built with your needs in mind. We offer a range of business checking and savings options designed for flexibility, control, and growth.

With Ergo Bank business accounts, you get:

  • Easy-to-understand terms
  • Quick access to funds when you need them
  • Support for separating business and personal expenses
  • Helpful features like automatic transfers or eStatements

Starting with the right accounts can simplify taxes, budgeting, and everyday decisions — no more guessing where your money went.

Learn More About Business Banking Accounts

2. Smart, Flexible Lending Options

Sometimes you need capital to take the next step, whether that’s expanding your space, buying new equipment, or covering seasonal slowdowns. That’s where our commercial lending team steps in.

We offer:

  • Business term loans
  • Lines of credit
  • Equipment financing
  • Real estate and construction loans
  • SBA loan assistance

You’ll work directly with a local decision-maker who knows your community and can move quickly to help you get approved with fair, competitive terms.

Explore Business Loan Options Here

3. Personal Support from People Who Know You

You're more than just an account number to us. We know your name, and our team members live and work right here in your community. We get to know your business, your goals, and what keeps you up at night.

We’ll help you:

  • Understand your financial options
  • Build a long-term banking relationship
  • Find the right mix of tools for your needs
  • Navigate unexpected challenges with a trusted partner

Our goal isn’t to just open an account — it’s to help your business grow and succeed.

Contact Our Business Banking Team

4. Easy Digital Tools to Manage Cash Flow

Even in a small town, you need modern tools to run your business efficiently. Ergo Bank offers digital banking solutions designed to save you time and give you control on the go.

Our tools include:

  • Online and mobile business banking
  • Remote deposit capture
  • Account alerts and fraud protection
  • Bill pay and ACH services
  • Interactive Teller Machines

So whether you’re in the office or out in the field, your finances are always within reach. Have you heard about our Interactive Teller Machines (ITMs)? They’re an ATM with a live teller, where you can take care of most of your transactions without stepping into a branch. It’s like a FaceTime or Skype call with a local Ergo Bank team member!

Learn About Our ITMs

5. Business Credit & Payment Services

Every business has expenses, and every dollar counts. That’s why we help you manage payments smarter.

We can help you set up:

  • Business credit cards with flexible limits
  • Employee cards for team purchases
  • Merchant services for accepting card payments
  • Payment solutions for both in-store and online sales

Want to boost your business’s credit profile while keeping spending organized? We’ll walk you through how to get started.

Apply for a Visa® Platinum Business Rewards

6. Help Planning for Emergencies & Seasonality

Life as a small business owner isn’t always predictable. Whether it’s a tough crop year, delayed inventory, or an unexpected repair, having a financial cushion is key.

Ergo Bank helps you:

  • Build savings into your budget
  • Set up automatic contributions to a rainy-day fund
  • Prepare for slow seasons or emergencies

And if things get tight, we’re here to talk through lending options or strategies to help you bounce back.

Open a Business Savings Account

7. Deep Roots in the Local Business Community

We don’t just serve businesses, we believe in them. You’ll see our team at local events, shopping small, and cheering on local entrepreneurs.

Stop By and See Us in Person

Quick Start Checklist: Thinking of Starting a Business?

Use this checklist as a starting point for launching your business the right way:

Choose Your Business Structure

Sole proprietor, LLC, S-Corp — we can connect you with professionals if you’re unsure.

Register Your Business Name in Wisconsin

Check availability and register with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions.

Apply for an EIN

This Employer Identification Number is like a Social Security number for your business.

Open a Business Checking Account

Keep your personal and business expenses separate from day one. Open a business checking account with a local bank.

Set Up Business Savings or Credit

Plan ahead for taxes, large purchases, or emergencies with a savings account or line of credit.

Meet with a Small Business Banker

We’ll review your goals and help you map out next steps with real advice — not a sales pitch. Stop by your local Ergo Bank branch or visit one of our ITMs.

Small Business Banking FAQs

We’ve heard a lot of great questions from local business owners over the years. Here are a few of the most common ones, and how we can help.

What’s the first account I need to open as a new business owner?

A business checking account is key. It separates your business finances from your personal ones and is often required for setting up tools like payroll or POS systems.

Do I need a business plan to get a loan?

A solid business plan helps, but it doesn’t have to be fancy. We’ll guide you on what’s needed depending on the loan type and your goals.

Can I get funding if my business is just starting out?

Yes! We offer loans and lines of credit even for new businesses. We look at the full picture, not just how long you’ve been open.

Do you offer digital tools for businesses?

Absolutely. From mobile deposits to cash flow monitoring, our online banking platform is built for busy owners on the go.

Check Out Our Business Banking Solutions

Let’s Grow Together

From the very first transaction to the next big expansion, Ergo Bank is here to help your small business succeed.

We know your name. We understand your challenges. And we’ll keep showing up for your business every step of the way.

If you’re an entrepreneur, small business owner, or someone with a dream in your back pocket, we want to hear from you. Visit your nearest Ergo Bank branch or explore our Business Banking Services to learn more.

Explore Our Business Banking Services Online